FAM warned against secrecy over heritage player clearances
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian football is once again facing questions over its handling of player eligibility, with critics warning that FA of Malaysia (FAM) must be more transparent over its recent heritage player clearances.
Malaysian football authorities face criticism over transparency in handling heritage player clearances, following FIFA sanctions for seven foreign-born players. The players include Facundo Garces, Jon Irazabal, Hector Hevel, Gabriel Palmero, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, and Joao Figueiredo. FAM recently announced FIFA eligibility clearances for new players via social media ahead of matches, raising concerns.
While Brazilian player Bergson da Silva's naturalisation is straightforward, Australian-based Brad Tapp's heritage status has sparked questions due to lack of public documentation about his family ties in Malaysia. Sports analyst Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli warns FAM to be more transparent, noting that Malaysian fans demand evidence before accepting claims.
He emphasizes that while naturalisation based on residency is clear, heritage claims need documented evidence. Pekan questions why FAM doesn't make heritage players' credentials public, citing Indonesia's transparent approach. He warns that another eligibility scandal could lead to a full-blown international suspension for Harimau Malaya, affecting the domestic league and clubs.
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